It’s not that common to associate energy efficiency or sustainable strategies with casinos. Yet, the gaming industry is a step towards a greener future as it adapts more and more to eco-friendly procedures and green initiatives.
Day after day, these practices with an environmental impact become part of the business planning in the casino industry. Also, with the constant evolution of technology, it becomes even easier to own a sustainable business.
The following article will discuss some green practices that casinos use to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their efficiency.
Solar Energy is King
It’s true that solar energy is not a revolutionary thing anymore as many businesses already use it. However, in the gambling industry, only a few casinos have considered using it.
Yet, recently, an increased number of casino owners chose to cut energy costs by using a more sustainable approach—solar energy. For instance, the famous MGM Hotel and Casino uses solar panels installed on the casino’s roof. This has become the main source of energy for the entire building.
Moreover, casino owners reduce their energy usage by opening online platforms as well. Many offer bonus casino deals and other irresistible perks to make players join this new form of betting. Moving to a digital platform will allow the owner to reduce the use of electronic slot machines and will guarantee the player won’t feel a difference. Even better, they can now play from the comfort of their own home.
The New Concept of Green Buildings
When it comes to construction and building renovations, these have also become more economically efficient. Nowadays, many casino owners and their architects try to design more eco-friendly buildings. Casino operators have been looking to achieve LEED certification or get a higher LEED rating for several years now.
The Green Building Council provides resources through the LEED Program to owners, contractors, and designers who wish to develop efficient buildings with lower carbon footprints. This certification will create a positive image in the public’s eye, and it also has the power to reduce taxes for operators.
Collecting Data and Monitoring
In order to develop green practices in a casino environment, they will need to collect data and analyse them carefully. Only this way the management teams will understand what to improve and provide the right solutions.
Casino owners and managers use data collection and analytical tools to make efficient and sustainable choices for their operations. They use these tools to create complex reports about visitor traffic, air quality, security, energy and water usage and many other processes that casino management implies.
With a monitoring system at hand, casino owners can collect data to easily identify where to make improvements and reductions in their facilities.
Sustainable Cleaning Practices
One of the most efficient ways to start changes in a casino is by using safer, less harsh cleaning products for sanitation tasks. Cleaning teams will use safer alternatives to traditional cleaners, reducing the use of disposable cleaning tools.
These practices will help the casino reduce the cost of cleaning services. Moreover, using eco-friendly cleaners will improve air quality in the building and reduce water and air pollution.
The Environmental Protection Agency Collaboration
The Environmental Protection Agency Collaboration, or EPA, developed several green solutions that casinos can use to improve their sustainability. Several programs like ENERGY STAR, WaterSense, Integrated Pest Management, and Safer Choice will enhance casino processes in different areas such as:
- Recycling
- Green Cleaning
- Renewable Energy
- Building Practices
- Kitchens and Food
- Water Conservation
- Transportation
- Golf Course and Pool Efficiency
Food Waste Reduction
Another common goal for both owners and managers is to reduce food waste. This means they should perform sustainable practices like composting unused food, looking for local produce, using smaller plates and many other solutions.
Of course, this procedure not only benefits the environment but also helps the casino significantly reduce costs for food.
Conclusion
As more companies aim for eco-friendly operations, they expect green practices to become simpler and more widespread in the coming years. As you can see, casinos, drawn to the cost savings, are likely to make sustainable practices a regular part of their planning and operations in the near future.
